The Orlando area's famous for its theme parks, but it often seems like most of the excitement is geared toward the little ones. That became even more true when Disney closed down the adults-oriented Pleasure Island section of Downtown Disney (as it was known then—it has since been rebranded as Disney Springs). But Universal Orlando Resort's CityWalk offers tons of fun for us active adults, with cool dining, drinking, entertainment, and shopping options, all without the cost of park admission. 

About CityWalk Orlando 

This section of the Universal Orlando Resort property opened in 1999 as part of a major expansion. It serves as the entrance to the two adjoining theme parks, Universal Orlando and Islands of Adventure, as all visitors pass through CityWalk to reach the ticket booths and admission gates for either park. But it's also a self-contained destination in its own right, especially for adults (though there's certainly enough to amuse the grandkids, too). 

There's no charge to enter CityWalk, but you're still on the hook for the $20 parking fee. Unless you go after 6:00 pm; then, parking is free for Florida residents (with a valid State ID) and only $5 for everyone else. Or, if you're a real night owl, parking is usually free for everyone after 10:00 pm. These reduced and free rates just don't apply during bigger special events, like Halloween Horror Nights and New Year's Eve. Also, if you have a preferred or premier level annual pass to the Universal parks, free parking is one of the perks. 

Between the food and drinks, the entertainment, and the retail stores, there's plenty for grownups to do at CityWalk to pass the entire day and evening. Here's a quick look at what you'll find there: 

Entertainment at CityWalk Orlando 

  • The amazing Blue Man Group performs one or two shows almost every day of the year
  • Catch just about any flick you've been wanting to see at the state-of-the-art, 20-screen AMC movie theater (complete with a full beer, wine, and liquor bar)
  • Take a break from the pro courses and putt on two 18-hole mini golf courses with the amusing theme of 1950s sci-fi and horror movies
  • Sing karaoke backed by a real, live band and real, live professional backup singers at CityWalk's Rising Star—and of course laugh and dance and sing along with all the other performances of wildly varying quality
  • Bounce to some live reggae, check out exhibits about Bob Marley's life and career, and enjoy Caribbean cuisines at Bob Marley – A Tribute to Freedom
  • If you're feeling just a little rowdier, see a rock show at Hard Rock Live, the live performance space attached to the world's largest Hard Rock Cafe
  • We'll go out on a limb here and guess you're probably not too thrilled by the prospect of hitting up a nightclub filled with 20-somethings shaking their tail feathers, but just in case, there's also The Groove 

Dining at CityWalk Orlando 

  • As mentioned, there's a very big Hard Rock Cafe at CityWalk, serving classic American cuisine and famously displaying all sorts of oldies and classic rock memorabilia
  • And, in case you skimmed past the last section, Bob Marley – A Tribute to Freedom serves up excellent Caribbean food
  • Partake of Louisiana-inspired meals using locally sourced ingredients at celebrity chef Emeril Lagasse's restaurant, Emeril's Orlando (FYI: his delicious, stunningly decorated Pacific-themed restaurant Tchoup Chop is right down the street from CityWalk at the Loews Royal Pacific Resort at Universal Orlando)
  • What's more Florida than Jimmy Buffet? Enjoy some laid back tunes (including live guitar music on the “Porch of Indecision”) and atmosphere while partaking of Key West and Caribbean-inspired food, and of course a margarita or three at Jimmy Buffet's Margaritaville
  • Antojitos offers fresh, authentic Mexican cuisine inspired by the country's street food and cantinas
  • If shrimp and seafood are on your wish list, hit up Bubba Gump Shrimp Co., and be prepared to answer some trivia about Forrest Gump for your server
  • Go for the unlikely but successfully executed combination of burgers and sushi at Cowfish
  • There's quality sports bar atmosphere and food, along with an astounding selection of craft beers, at NBC Sports Grill & Brew
  • Vivo Italian Kitchen puts a contemporary spin on classic Italian food with an emphasis on fresh ingredients
  • Eat at Red Oven Pizza Bakery for some fantastically fresh, surprisingly elegant pies
  • Classic Louisiana cuisine, dueling pianos, and Mardis Gras all year long await at Universal CityWalk's recreation of Pat O'Brien's, the legendary bar in The Big Easy
  • At the CityWalk Hot Dog Hall of Fame, you can order famous dog preparations from famous ballparks around the country 

More at CityWalk Orlando 

These are just some highlights of what's available at CityWalk. There are also a number of less unique places like Starbucks, Burger King, Panda Express, Moe's Southwest Grill, Menchie's, and Cold Stone Creamery, just to name some, if you're looking for something a little faster, cheaper, or snackier. Some of the stores include Tommy Bahama, Fossil Inc., Fresh Produce, and the Universal Studios Store. There are also several open-air bars you can stroll up to and stop for a drink.  

As you can see, there's a lot of fun to be had at Universal's Citywalk Orlando, even for us active adults. Have a great time!

Feature Image Credits - Kamira / Shutterstock.com